Western Power has urged property owners to replace private power poles at their own expense. 

Following the discovery that many of these poles are in dire need of replacement, Western Power has reminded residents that it is a responsibility that falls unexpectedly on the homeowners themselves. 

The program to inspect poles began in 2021, a response to the devastating 2014 Parkerville bushfires, which were ignited by a fallen pole on private property. 

This tragedy led to the loss of 57 homes and highlighted a significant oversight in infrastructure maintenance.

The Court of Appeal later found that Western Power, despite not owning the poles, had neglected its duty of care by failing to periodically inspect these structures on private lands. 

Since the inception of the inspection initiative, about 1,000 homeowners have reportedly  received notices to replace their poles within 30 to 90 days or risk disconnection from the electricity supply. 

Western Power claims that this measure is a last resort, aiming to ensure community safety by maintaining a secure electricity supply.

Homeowners have contacted media outlets, saying they had been oblivious to the fact that they owned the power pole on their property. Many now face a hefty price tag, with quotes for pole replacement averaging around $5,000. 

Western Power's Asset Management executive, Gair Landsborough, says that the inspection program, which has already covered 80 per cent of the state's private power poles, is a necessary step towards safeguarding the community. 

The company says it is prepared to offer financial assistance to those struggling to afford the replacement costs.